Nutrition CARE Act of 2025

This bill would make Medicare cover medical nutrition therapy for people with eating disorders. Care must be provided by a registered dietitian or nutrition professional after a referral from a doctor, psychologist, or another mental health professional allowed by state law. Coverage would start in 2026. In the first year, patients could get at least 13 hours (a 1-hour first visit plus 12 hours of follow-up), and then at least 4 hours in each year after that. The federal health agency could set other reasonable limits as needed.

Lawmakers note that eating disorders affect millions of Americans, cause thousands of deaths each year, and are especially serious for older adults who may already have other health problems. They also point out that Medicare currently does not fully cover this type of nutrition care, even though it is a key part of treatment.

• Who is affected: Medicare patients diagnosed with an eating disorder.
• What changes: Medicare adds coverage for nutrition therapy by a registered dietitian or nutrition professional, with a referral from a physician or qualified mental health professional.
• When: Begins January 1, 2026.
• How much care: At least 13 hours in the first year and 4 hours in each following year, with possible additional limits set by the agency.